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NCJRS Abstract


The document referenced below is part of the NCJRS Library collection.
To conduct further searches of the collection, visit the NCJRS Abstracts Database.

How to Obtain Documents
 
NCJ Number: NCJ 137718  
Title: DNA Fingerprinting: Basic Techniques, Problems, and Solutions
Journal: Journal of Criminal Justice  Volume:20  Issue:3  Dated:(1992)  Pages:237-248
Author(s): R J Herrera ; M L Tracey Jr
Sponsoring Agency: Alberta Block Parent Advisory Cmtte
Canada
Publication Date: 1992
Pages: 12
Type: State-of-the-art reviews
Origin: United States
Language: English
Grant No.: RR08205
Annotation: This article outlines DNA fingerprinting as a best-case scenario and identifies some of the problems and prospects; it elaborates on some of the problems and changes expected in the near future.
Abstract: Genes in the form of DNA molecules (chromosomes) are transmitted from generation to generation. Nucleotide sequences encoded in the DNA molecule are unique to every individual, and all the cells from a person, except for red blood cells and sperms or eggs, contain identical sequences of nucleotides, which are the DNA subunits. The uniqueness of each person's DNA allows the unequivocal identification of any individual. The standard procedure used in DNA fingerprinting involves the collection of tissue samples and the cutting of DNA with restriction enzymes, the generation of two or more fragments from an original piece of DNA, the separation of fragments according to size, the chemical treatment of the double-stranded DNA fragments to unwind the double helix, and the binding of a radioactive process that generates a multitude of DNA fragments unique to each individual. The determination of match or mismatch on a DNA fingerprint involves comparison of the band positions (sizes of DNA fragments) from different DNA samples. Some current problems with DNA fingerprint involve DNA degradation, band shifting, the use of an inappropriate data base, and poor laboratory practice. Technologies and ideas that will improve the current situation are presented, and areas in need of additional basic research are identified. 30 references
Main Term(s): DNA fingerprinting
Index Term(s): Suspect identification ; Blood and body fluid analysis
 
To cite this abstract, use the following link:
http://www.ncjrs.gov/App/Publications/abstract.aspx?ID=137718

* A link to the full-text document is provided whenever possible. For documents not available online, a link to the publisher's web site is provided.


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